TETBURY’S Danny Kent last week gave notice that he could be vying for honours in the inaugural Moto3 campaign this year, writes Alannah Fellows.

During three days of pre-season testing at the Ricardo Tormo circuit in Valencia, Spain, Kent was consistently among the best times.

The 18-year-old has signed with the Red Bull Ajo Motorsport team for the second year running.

A KTM engine rather than an Aprilia powers his new bike since the change from 125cc to 250cc for the Moto3 series.

Kent had a positive three days at the Spanish circuit, securing his best time on the final day of the test, a 1.41.2 which was only 0.3 seconds off fastest man and team-mate Sandro Cortese. It left Kent in third place.

The Spanish winter provided cold and windy conditions for the Moto3 riders. Nonetheless, Danny still put in 155 laps over the three days.

Kent said: “I’m adapting to the Moto3 bike really well. Each time I get on the bike we keep making big improvements.

“At the moment it’s going really well and I’m enjoying it. I think this year we’ve got a competitive bike and team, so we’ve got a really good chance to get some podiums. I think every time we get on the bike we are learning something new.”

The next pre-season test will be held at the Andalucian circuit of Jerez this weekend.

It was at Jerez that Kent secured his best finish of 2011.